Condensation Problem - Help Needed

[H2O_Beasts]

My 6 month old 125G tank has glass versa-tops on it and a canopy. The light is not attached to the canopy, so it sits right on top of the glass tops (The light is a 6' strip with two 3' long fluorescent bulbs attached. Brand is perfecto).

Recently, my tank has started leaking from the top, where the plastic trim is attached to the top of the tank. The water is coming from behind the plastic trim at the top center, and drips down the front of the glass

After speaking with the tank manufacturer several times (LeeMar), I was told that the black plastic trim that is attached to the top of the tank is not meant to be water tight, and that they believe the excess condensation is finding its way through where the plastic trim is attached to the tank. I keep the water level about 1-2" below the bottom of the black plastic trim. The leak is located 1-2" above the water line. I already tried running some silicon along the top seam but that hasn't stopped the water from seeping out.

Leemar recommended reducing the amount of condensation. I was thinking of swapping out the glass tops with egg crate, which would allow more ventilation. Only problem with that is the light would have to sit right on top of the egg crate. I'm concerned that water would get into the light fixture and cause major problems. Anyone have any suggestions on how I can reduce the condensation so that the leak stops?

Really frustrated by this and would appreciate any input.

 

[skjl47]

Hello; I agree that a light directly exposed to evaporation/condensation can be damaged, it has happened to some of my setups. I have found that a pane of glass directly under the light and between the light and the water has done quite well. I also have found the condensation type leaks can sometimes be traced to tubes or wires that channel the water. This is the part of a setup where different arrangments have to be tried until a solution is found.

 

[H2O_Beasts]

bump...please help

 

[deeda]

Adding silicone sealant to the entire underside of the front trim should have solved the problem if applied correctly. Did you use your finger to 'tool' the silicone bead and push it in that gap?

You could always replace the front portions of the glass canopy with custom fit egg crate light diffuser panels to prevent the condensation from reaching that section of the trim and dripping down the glass front. But if you have a center brace on the tank, there will still be condensation accumulating on that part which contacts the front trim. You will also need to vent the canopy to prevent the moisture from condensing there also.